MORE than 300 serving Scots cops have criminal records ranging from vandalism to attempts to pervert the course of justice.

Scotland’s eight police forces admitted having 333 officers who are guilty of serious offences – and the true figure could be higher because not all data was revealed.

The figure includes constables, sergeants and even a Lothian and Borders chief inspector still serving despite a drug conviction. It is estimated that half of the officers involved committed the offences while in the police – and punishments handed down byindividual forces can be as lightas demotion and loss of pay.

Lib Dem justice spokeswoman Alison McInnes said: “Police officers are expected to uphold both the law and the highestmoral standards.

“It is particularly worrying that officers convicted of crimes including domestic abuse and serious assault are continuingto serve. The role of the police officer should be held in respectby the public.”